Land Rover Defender Nearing Electrification By 2025, Riding On MLA FLEX Platform

The durable behemoth, the Land Rover Defender looks to be nearing electrification by 2025. As reported by Auto Express, full EV versions of the version 90, 110, and 130 models could be in the line-up by then riding on the new MLA Flex platform.

However, there is expected to be not much change in the vehicle's outlook as the current design remains highly desirable. It would instead receive an upgraded infotainment system with possibly an upgraded larger screen. Most of the interior design is expected to remain largely unchanged due to its popularity too. Now as with any EV centric vehicle, there is a possibility Land Rover might look at a change in material choices for the fittings to be more environmentally sustainable.

The wizards at Land Rover are said to be enthusiastic about the Defender's ability to become a full fledged EV while retaining or perhaps boosting its off-road skills. The use of software management and torque vectoring may aid in the improvement of electric power delivery. Furthermore, a completely flat underbelly is believed to improve the Defender's ground clearance and off-roading skills.

According to Land Rover insiders as reported by Auto Express, the all-electric Range Rover, which is set to be released in 2024, will be equipped with a 100 kWh battery that will enable at least 300 miles of all-electric range.

By default, as would all EV’s, the electrified Land Rover Defender would feature a more closed-up front fascia as it would require less air-inlet for cooling.

While at this topic it is good to note that the Defenders other sibling the Land Rover Discovery which would share the similar under-pinnings as the Defender is also to be entirely redesigned to accept electrification as reported by Thierry Bolloré, the former CEO of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR). He further added that this is in order for the Discovery to remain competitive in the premium segment by being a "true family vehicle for the most discerning households".

All these are part of the Jaguar Land Rover's (JLR) Reimagine initiative, which is set in motion to electrify the entire Land Rover range by 2030 with targets of being a premium SUV brand. It is good to note that the group's global plants are in the midst of preparation for the production of battery-electric vehicles as part of this effort.

As of now there is a back-log order of about 200,000 vehicles to be fulfilled coming out from the pandemic mainly being the Range Rovers, Range Rover Sports, and Defenders models hence prompting that the current management is not in any rush to roll out the EV’s.

The only full EV from the JLR group at the moment is the Jaguar I-Pace, which makes up over 65% in Jaguar sales which clearly shows that the interest towards electrification is significantly higher compared to any internal combustion offerings. Guess it's time for JLR group to push harder towards faster electrification to keep up with similar competitors offering.